Review: Dragon Quest IX "Close to Perfect"

Previews

Although JRPG fans usually salivate at the mention of Final Fantasy, the Dragon Quest series has consistently delivered classic experiences. And a half decade after Dragon Quest VIII left a mark as one of the PS2's greatest games, Level 5 has produced Dragon Quest IX: Sentinels of the Starry Skies, a DS-only effort. It introduces several new elements into the familiar formula that produce a better role-playing experience. At least, that's what Gus Mastrapa thinks. Here's a glimpse into his thoughts on the game-changing multiplayer:

"Local multiplayer is something of a sea change for the traditional single-player role-playing game. But rather than re-write combat from the ground up and shake the series to its foundations, Dragon Quest IX does the obvious. When four friends play it in the same room, they can all teleport into a single realm and adventure at will -- roaming wherever they please. The host can summon his buddies to battle in his adventure. When they heed the call, they’re teleported to the host’s fight, entering the turn-based battle queue as if they were one of the player’s NPC allies. Only they get to call their own shots."

Are you thinking of heading to your local game shop on Sunday to pick it up? Read Gus' review to whet your appetite!